Marines.TogetherWeServed Newsletter - December, 2009

In This Issue

Happy Holidays!...Me and My Drum...Operation COBRA'S ANGERWhat does TWS mean to you!Video of the MonthCJCS tours Afghanistan market withMarinesMarines.TWS Forums and Chat Boards -Sound Off!Volunteers place 16,000 wreaths atArlingtonTWS Persons Locator Service - BuddiesFound Success Stories!CJCS sends Holiday message to troops,familiesTWS Marine Store - For All Your MarineMerchandise Needs!Remembering Pearl HarborFAMILY MATTERSUsing Your Government E-mail Address onMTWS?Complimentary Upgrade to Combat TroopsServing in OIF/OEFVET TOPICSDid You Know?IT'S YOUR CAREER!TWSCafe!Member Comments

Quotable Quotes

You cannot exaggerate about theMarines. They are convinced to thepoint of arrogance, that they arethe most ferocious fighters onearth- and the amusing thing aboutit is that they are. Father Kevin Keaney1st Marine Division ChaplainKorean War

History of the Marine Corps Birthday

One of the biggest occasions in the life of a Marine,any Marine, either active duty or long discharged iscelebrated this month. Celebrating the birth of theMarine Corps. However, the grandeur of a formal ballor even simply acknowledging the birth of the Marine

Happy Holidays!

Here's offering a Crisp Hand Salute to all our or Marine Brothers and Sisters whoare currently serving in harms way, far away from family and friends. Pleaseknow that you are in our thoughts and prayers for a safe return, and that weThank You for your continued service!

It's appropriate during this season to take a pause from our busy lives andconsider those who are serving to benefit all of us, and those who are lessfortunate. It's true that times are tough all over right now, especially for thekids. If you can find the time or the resources, please consider supporting acharitable organization in your community this holiday season. Toys-for-Tots isan outstanding Marine Corps program that most definitely needs your supportthis year.

You have all contributed to make 2009 a great year for TWS and we are proudto have you aboard and to continue being of service to you in the years tocome. So from all of us here at TWS to all you, Thank You! Here's wishing youall a Merry Christmas and a most enjoyable Holiday Season!

Semper Fidelis,

Maj Wes Prater (Ret)Co-Founder/AdministratorTogetherWeServed.com

Corps is something that was not always done amongstMarines.

Prior to 1921, the birth of the Marine Corps was noteven something that was paused to commemorate. Itwas in that year that thirteenth Commandant of theMarine Corps, General John A. Lejeune issued MarineCorps Order No. 47, Series 1921, wherein heproclaimed the history, mission, and tradition of theCorps. In it, he directed that the order be read to allMarines on November 10th of each year to honor thefounding of the Marine Corps from when our countrywas in its fragile infancy.

During the American Revolution, many importantpolitical discussions took place in the inns and tavernsof Philadelphia. The founding of the Marine Corps wasno exception. A committee of the ContinentalCongress met at Tun Tavern to draft a resolutioncalling for two battalions of Marines able to fight forindependence at sea and on shore. The resolutionwas approved on November 10, 1775, officiallyforming the Continental Marines.

As the first order of business, Samuel Nicholasbecame Commandant of the newly formed Marines.Tun Tavern's owner and popular patriot, RobertMullan, became his first captain and recruiter. Theybegan gathering support and were ready for action byearly 1776.

So, it is on this date, the 10th of November of eachyear that the Marine Corps marks with a celebration ofour Corps, the memory of our fallen and anacknowledgement of all that is good in our Corps.

Because of the foresight of General Lejuene, do wehave the present-day celebration of this date.

Soon after General Lejuene's order, some Marinecommands began to not only honor the birthday, butcelebrate it. In 1923 the Marine Barracks at Ft. Mifflin,Pennsylvania, staged a formal dance. The Marines atthe Washington Navy Yard arranged a mock battle onthe parade ground.

The first formal Birthday Ball took place onPhiladelphia in 1925. Guests included theCommandant, the Secretary of War, statesmen andelected officials. Just prior to the Ball, GeneralLejeune unveiled a memorial plaque at Tun Tavern.Then the entourage headed for the Benjamin FranklinHotel and an evening of festivities.

Over the years the annual Birthday Ball grew andgrew, taking on a life of its own. In 1952, theCommandant, General. Lemuel C. Shepherd Jr.,formalized the cake-cutting ceremony and othertraditional observances.

Like the U.S. Marine Corps itself, the annual BirthdayBall has evolved from simple origins to the polished

...Me and My Drum...

Field drummers from the 1st Marine Division Band perform the classic holiday song "TheLittle Drummer Boy" at Camp Pendleton's base theatre during the Marine CorpsCommunity Services-sponsored Holiday Concert and Expo. More than 200 Pendletonfamilies attended the festive event.

- Photo by LCpl. Damien Gutierrez

Operation COBRA'S ANGER

Marines with 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment,

conduct combat operations in Now Zad, Afghanistan,

during Operation Cobra's Anger. Cobra's Anger

disrupted enemy supply lines and communication in

the Now Zad region, once a safe haven for Taliban

forces.

- Photo by Lance Cpl. Walter Marino

'NO REGRETS, JUST REVENGE'

Marines assault into Now Zad Story & photos by LCpl. Walter MarinoRegimental Combat Team 7 Public Affairs NOW ZAD, AFGHANISTAN -- After many months of planning, the Marines ofAlpha Company, 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion and Lima Company, 3rdBattalion, 4th Marine Regiment arose to Afghanistan's 3 a.m. cold winter chill tokick off Operation Cobra's Anger. An unusual silence surrounded the Marines asthey boarded their vehicles.

No jokes, no talking, just business. The stoic faced Marines in the six wheeled,armored vehicle, known as the "Cougar," listened intently to the chatter overthe radio.

"The Afghan army just got their first kill in combat," said a Marine on thecommunication line.

A Marine steps through the rubble

that once served as cover for

Taliban fighters in the aftermath of

combat operations in Now Zad,

Afghanistan, during Operation

Cobra's Anger.

function it is today.

Compiled from sources including "Warrior Culture ofthe U.S. Marines," by Marion F. Sturkey; United StatesMarine Corps at marines.com; Wiki-pedia.Submitted by: Sadaj, Kevin (Slim), LCpl

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MARINE CORPS NEWS

TOYS FOR TOTS - Marine SSgt. Denis Licona (left),from Commander US Naval Forces Europe/Africa, US6th Fleet staff; and GySgt. Jarod Duke, fromCommander Strike Force NATO staff, help open a giftfor a young boy at Instituto Piccola Casetta diNazareth, a school for underprivileged children inPescopagano De Mondragone, Italy. Marines andSailors donated gifts to 60 children as part of the 2009Marine Corps Toys for Tots drive.- US Navy photo by Daniela Muto

- Marines protect thousands at Camp Leatherneck- Custom kitchen, home-cooked meals bringMarines together in Afghanistan- Intense snowfall closes MCB Quantico- MCAS Iwakuni firefighters share Christmas spiritwith orphans- Hawaii's Toys for Tots goes to Molokai- Marines continue to drawdown in Iraq- MCAS Yuma fire chief retires after 34 years of

Stoicism turned into wide grins after hearing the news.

A few minutes later the convoy stopped.They had reached a river bed too deepto cross. Bulldozers were brought in tofill the bed with sand in order to make abridge for their vehicles. They hadentered enemy territory.

The road to Now Zad was known to beinfested with roadside bombs. So ratherthan take a chance, assault breachervehicles fired numerous line charges,which demolished the road ahead anddetonated any possible roadside bombsin a massive explosion.

With the road to Now Zad clear, Marinesfrom 3/4 and 2nd CEB blasted music from their vehicles and attacked into theNow Zad Taliban stronghold.

At this point, radio chatter flooded the communication lines again

"We have one on the second floor!" a Marine yelled over the line.

"I'm going to take him out right now," responded a Marine calmly.

Many Marine faces were smeared with green, black and brown camouflage paint.They wore it not for its traditional purpose, but for the same reason many of theMarines pinned American flags to their gear.

"Considering our unit has had a fallen comrade, it was [good] to give them ataste of their own medicine." said Cpl. Trevor W. Curtis, a vehicle gunner forLima Co., 3/4. "Ever since we lost our boy our motto has been, 'no regrets, justrevenge.'"

Emotional motives were fueled, when operation Cobra's Anger began. Themission not only gave the Marines an opportunity take the fight to the enemy,but was designed to destroy the Taliban presence in Now Zad, destroy theirweapons and give the Afghan people their city back.

Marines encountered enemy fire once they breached the city.

"An insurgent shot at us and we saw him peeking from behind a corner shootingrounds at us," Curtis said. "Once we had him spotted, one of our gunners shotat him with a .50-cal. machine gun and I unloaded my Mark-19 on him."

"After we shot, a tank fired at his building and all that was left was rubble,"Curtis said.

Marines moved cautiously from compound to compound. When there wasn't aclear route, heavy equipment operators used bulldozers to plow through walls,creating their own doorways through Now Zad. During these brief moments,Marines received a few short moments of rest before moving on to the nexthouse to clear.

"Not knowing what was on the other side was exciting," said Cpl. NathanLepage, a heavy equipment operator for Alpha Company, 2nd Combat EngineerBattalion. "It felt good to know I was making it safer for them to go throughthe city. If I wasn't there, it probably would have taken them longer and therewould have been more risk."

A bulldozer from 2nd Combat

Engineer Battalion moves sand and

gravel into a dry river bed in order

to make a bridge for vehicles while

another Marine keeps watch.

- MCAS Yuma fire chief retires after 34 years ofservice

SINK ARMY! - US Naval Academy quarterback RickyDobbs (#4) celebrates the go-ahead touchdown duringthe 110th Army-Navy football game at LincolnFinancial Field in Philadelphia. The one-yard run setan NCAA record for most touchdowns in a season bya quarterback. Navy's Middies defeated the ArmyBlack Knights for the eighth time in the annual clash,17-3. A majority of Navy's graduating football seniorshave chosen the Marine Corps option after graduation,the largest compared to the Brigade average.- US Navy photo by PO1 Chad J. McNeeley

BODY LANGUAGE - LCpl. John B. Kavanaugh useshand gestures to explain to an Aghan National Armysoldier how his firing stance can affect his balanceand accuracy near Forward Operating BaseGeronimo. The Marines took a squad of soldiersthrough a combat marksmanship drills to improve theircombat effectiveness.- Photo by Sgt. Brian A. Tuthill

TWS Fallen Marine Memorial Project

TWSis aplaceto

honor the service history of all Marines who servedincluding those who fell in combat. So that they willnot be forgotten, we have created a special facilitywhere any TWS Member can post a Remembrance

While the grunts cleared houses, combat engineers used metal detectors tokeep the Marines safe from IED's and used their C4 to destroy dozens of enemybunkers, and uncovered Taliban weapon caches.

Inside the city, the threat of IED's stilllingered and Marines constantly yelledout 'dispersion' to remind each other tokeep a proper distance from oneanother.

Marines patrolled through alleyways andtrees, and sometimes would come to adead end. Combat Engineers resolvedthat problem with C4, breaching newdoorways for the Marines to enter andalways keeping an eye out for roadsidebombs.

Infantry Marines appreciated the extrafire power the combat engineers provided.

The engineers found pressure plates that could have injured Marines, explainedCurtis, from Colorado Springs, Colo.

"It's [good] to have a guy capable of blowing up an enemy bunker," said Curtis."The engineers are an invaluable asset. Now Zad was the Taliban's center ofgravity. Now that we have it, it's definitely going to take a turn for the worst forthe Taliban."

In one day, the Marines arrived, saw and conquered the Taliban in Now Zad.

"I thought they'd put up more of a fight," said Cpl. Cody P. McGuire, a combatengineer for Alpha Company, 2nd CEB. "This was a hot spot, but there was verylittle resistance, except for IED's. I was there three days and found three IED's.They have the capability to put up a good fight. But we rolled in with assaultbreacher vehicles, tanks and air support. I think they were intimidated."

The next step for the Marines is to open the city to the Afghan people.

"As far as bringing the people back into the city, we are about 50 percent,because we have to de-mine the place and clean it up," said 1st Lt. Mathew M.Digiambattista, 1st platoon commander, Alpha Company, 2nd CEB. "Given theright tools and time, we can accomplish anything."

What does TWS mean to you!Maj Hank Salmans recently posted this essay competition on the forums, issuinga challenge to all members to put into words what TWS means to you. Here isthe submission of Cpl Mike Siers, one of the winners:

What Together We Served Means To Meby Corporal M. J Siers, USMC (1999-2003) There are ingrained truths that are pressed into the soul of a man or a womanwho decides to settle their feet upon those yellow foot steps. The tremulousnight, the bus ride, the tension filled mystery as the gates open to eitherMarine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego or the infamous Parris Island. For ourofficers that journey begins at Officer Candidates School in Quantico. One thingis certain, whatever happens afterwards will most certainly change who you arefor better or worse. We here at TogetherWeServe discover the end result wasnot only for better but something that would last far beyond the end of activeservice one chooses. Whether it is four years, eight years, or the magic twentyplus when warriors lay their weapons to rest upon retirement; a complete

where any TWS Member can post a RemembranceProfile for a Fallen Marine they knew or would like tohonor, and this can be accessed via the "Remembera Marine" link on the LH Home page. We have alsodeveloped an important feature which will enable TWSMembers to adopt the Profile of a Fallen Marinealready posted on the site.

A little over a year ago, TWS researched andcompiled comprehensive information on all 14,387Marines who fell during the Vietnam War, 1965-1975,and installed these as Fallen Profiles accessible viathe LH Home Page link. In just over 1 year, over12,000 of these profiles have now been adopted andthe memory of these Marines is cared for by theirfellow Marines. This is an outstanding tribute to theseMarines and a testament to the Esprit de Corps that iswhat TWS is all about.

We invite all TWS Members to adopt one or more ofthese remaining Fallen Profiles as custodian toresearch and add any additional information whenavailable. To adopt the Profile of a Fallen Marine fromthe Vietnam War, please click on the Adopt a FallenMarine Profile link on the left hand Home Page afteryou log in or click here

No Ads! - Help keep it that way

Marines.Togetherweserved is your website - pleasehelp secure its future by upgrading to Full Membership

As you know, there areno advertisementswithin the TWS websiteand There is no chargeto join MTWS andremain a FreeMember. Without on-site advertisments,TWS is a member-supported website andthere are considerablebenefits to becoming a

Full Member. By upgrading to Full Membership, whichis modestly priced and very simple to do, you not onlyhave access to premium areas of the website but, inso doing, you also help support the ongoingdevelopment, maintenance and promotion ofMarines.TogetherWeServed.com and keep itadvertisement free.

Think about it - how many websites doyou visit that have no advertising?

TWS is unique and it's here to serve YOU!

plus when warriors lay their weapons to rest upon retirement; a completetransformation. (We all know however --- none of us retire)

The truths prevail beyond life in the Corps. Honor, Courage, and Commitmentextend beyond one’s last boot step off the active pavement. Stalwart and neverending discipline for some may seem as a caricature of an outspoken andsometimes stubborn individual. An individual that not only refuses to quit whenfaced with the impossible, but also carries a certain command presence that forthose not accustomed to it, will find it overly abrasive if not intimidating. Pay nomind ladies and gentleman of the civilian class, it’s just a regular Marine doinghis or her thing.

These three principle truths are also found in what I would like to call theMarine Corp’s sub division, TogetherWeServed. True TWS isn’t officially tied tothe Department of Defense (just letting that one out so the good Major* doesn’thave a cow), it instead represents military bonds from past generations to thepresent. We share what we have learned from our experiences from Corps’ life,and pass it on to younger warriors who have taken the torch firmly and dutifullywithin the celebrated traditions of the Marines.

Marines from the Frozen Chosin, Vietnam, Beirut, The Gulf War, Somalia, to ourcurrent operational theaters in Iraq and Afghanistan have produced a hall ofheroes; living or fallen heroes all. TogetherWeServed is not a perfect affair, itworks as the hooks, jabs, and gritty barrack’s life did while in. Some of us areblood brothers and others have their heavy spats, disagreements, argumentsand down right toe to toe engagements. But like our old motto, we are alwaysfaithful to our family, and no one promised us a rose garden to begin with. Thegood thing simply is, after the dust settles, hearts are just as green and everyMarine member is ready to leap upon a grenade that’s intended for their fellowbrother or sister. We sometimes cater ‘Get Togethers’ where brothers and sister meet each otherfor the first time (truly never strangers) but becoming great friends from all fourcorners of the country. Together we often offer both emotional and physicalsupport. Special brothers like Frank McGuigan (Oldcorps52), through his owntime and energy, give individuals plaques in their own honor - reflective of theirTogetherWeServed profile page; a snapshot of their life in the Corps. No oneasks Frank but faithful to his personal mission he remains because thebrotherhood/sisterhood from our community re-fuels our Old Marine CorpsSpirit. The same Spirit that’s sung about around camps and far off places whereDevil Dogs train hard to fight hard from, East to West, in every clime and place,wherever our services are required. This is the feeling one gets after being herea while. Our many forums, both serious and down right entertaining, charactersthat would make you laugh, cuss, cry, and have a strange hair raising need tostand up and pop a salute to Chesty**. When we lose one of our own, not onlyis it a personal tragedy, but we also honor that individual with kept memorialsboth past and present. Here we discuss and share information aboutorganizations that help Devil Dogs in need. We discuss charities and eventspromoting various military causes as well as programs that aid veterans such asthose with health problems or even in need of the simple necessities of life.

Together here we hold the line. We extend that line when you’re in a tight spot,and the only thing you have left is that Marine coming to your aid and the bestprayer you can find in the Good Book. I was one of those Marines, and I’ve beenhelped by a good and generous many who did so because of that rare bondregardless of generation, age, color or creed. You don’t throw away nor forgetthat kind of love. It’s a love made from a mother’s brew, it’s a steelreinforcement that never buckles, and it’s damn sure the very ink that neverlets our colors run. The brotherhood bridge is strong. Even if one must leave this community, it is acertainty they’ll miss its camaraderie, but more importantly, they’ll keep intouch with those they personally came to know or rediscover. When someone

PENTAGON ARRIVAL - Defense Secretary Robert M.Gates (right) escorts Vietnamese National DefenseMinister, General Phung Quang Thanh, through ajoint-service honor cordon into the Pentagon earlierthis month.- DoD photo by R.D. Ward

ON STAGE FOR THE TROOPS - Musician Billy RayCyrus performs for troops at a stop on the 2009 USOHoliday Tour in Kandahar, Afghanistan. Navy ADMMike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, hiswife Deborah; along with Cyrus, tennis star AnnaKournikova, comedian Dave Attell and tennis coachNick Bollettieri were on-tour to visit troops inAfghanistan, Iraq and Germany over the Holidays.- DoD photo by PO1 Chad J. McNeeley

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE- Teamwork key to Iraqi security, Mullen says- Amb. Hill, GEN Odierno discuss Iraq election,relations with Iran - Mullen tours Afghanistan market with Marines- Commission examines contracting issues- ISAF officials investigate civilian casualty claims- Partnership in Iraq provides school supplies

touch with those they personally came to know or rediscover. When someoneleaves they are missed. When someone returns, they are celebrated with honorand kindness. Our front porch light is always on and there’s always someonewaiting at the door. Here you’ll find a fine crowd to keep you company duringthe best days of your life and when darkened shadows cast troubles your way.

TogetherWeServed is the mirror reflection of the ever watchful rifleman whofinds sleep to be worth more than gold, giving up is something of a cardinal sin,and his life dedicated to the preservation of his country, the Marine to the leftand right, and the family he provides safety to. Whatever and whoever you’llfind here is and will be the best and the last you’ll ever want to meet and know.

All wounds to the front, none from any one’s back --- that’s TogetherWeServed.

Semper Fi Corporal M. J “Soap Box” Siers *Major refers to Major Wes Prater founder of TogetherWeServed

** Lieutenant General Lewis Burwell "Chesty" Puller is the most decorated U.S.Marine in history, and the only Marine to receive five Navy Crosses, the UnitedStates Navy's second highest decoration after the Medal of Honor. Many Marinescan still be heard saying goodnight Chesty before dozing off to sleep.

Video of the MonthA tribute to our our Marine Brother's and Sisters who are still serving in harmsway - may God Bless and keep them...

CJCS tours Afghanistan market with Marines

Story & photo by Sgt. Brian Tuthill1st Marine Division, Regimental Combat Team 7 Public Affairs

PATROL BASE JAKER, AFGHANISTAN -- The chairman of the Joint Chiefs ofStaff visited Patrol Base Jaker to tour the base and the Nawa district center andspend time with Marines and sailors assigned here.

Navy Admiral Mike Mullen accompanied Marine Corps Brigadier GeneralLawrence D. Nicholson, commanding general of 2nd Marine ExpeditionaryBrigade Afghanistan, and Marine Corps Lt. Col. Matt Baker, commander of 1stBattalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, on a tour of the district's downtown marketarea just outside the patrol base.

The group walked the streets with only a security team and without body armor.

While in the market, Mullen spoke with Nawa district residents about theirsecurity and needs. He also spoke with Adbul Manaf, the district governor, about

Abdul Manaf (left), governor of Nawa district

in Afghanistan’s Nawa province, expresses

to Navy ADM Mike Mullen, chairman of the

Joint Chiefs of Staff, his happiness with the

progress made in the district. Mullen visited

Patrol Base Jaker and the Nawa district

center to see the progress since July's

assault on Taliban forces and to meet with

Marines of 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine

Regiment.

COLOR BEARERS - Army SGT Brandon McIntosh(center) and Adjudant-chef Henri Plessiet, BelgianArmy, carry the colors of their respective nations withthe US Army Garrison Benelux Color Guard inBastogne, Belgium to commemorate the Battle of theBulge. Plessiet is from the Belgian 1st Field ArtilleryRegiment.- US Army photo by Christie Vanover

AIR FORCE- Homeless find hope at closed California bases - Rescue crews train JASDF pilots- Berlin Airlift exhibit to reside at Travis AirMuseum- Korea command officials focus on quality of life- Good things come in small packages- DePLAYment tags coming soon- USAFA cadets bring holiday cheer to children inneed

SMILE FOR DADDY - Air Force SSgt. Mike Coleholds his daughter before saying goodbye as heprepares to depart with the first wave of civilengineers with the 148th Fighter Wing, Duluth, MN. Alarge number of the unit's civil engineers will deploy toBagram Airfield, Afghanistan.- USAF photo by MSgt. Jason W. Rolfe

TOY TRICK - Falcon hockey team members from theUS Air Force Academy collect toys tossed onto therink ice after scoring their first goal during their annualgame against American International College inColorado Springs, CO. The toss is a holiday tradition;the team collects and distributes the toys donated byfans to children in local hospitals and clinics. In thepast nine years, more than 5,000 toys have beendistributed to young patients.- USAF photo by J. Rachel Spencer

ARMY

security and needs. He also spoke with Adbul Manaf, the district governor, aboutthe changes brought to the area by Marines since the arrival of 1st Battalion,5th Marine Regiment, in July.

"One of the reasons [for myvisit] is to see and recognize theimprovement and change whichhas happened here since theMarines came into this area,"Mullen said. "I was here withintwo weeks of when the Marinescame in here initially, so it'svery easy for me to observewhere we were then to wherewe are now."

Manaf told Mullen how happy heis having Marines in Nawa sincetheir arrival months ago, andadded that he hopes they canfind a way to stay longer inAfghanistan to maintain Nawa'ssecurity.

"The plan for all of us is totransition security to the localforces," Mullen said, reinforcing

President Barack Obama's 2011 plans for U.S. forces to leave Afghanistan. "Iam confident the Afghan national security forces will be able to do this job. Ican fully understand the governor's elation [with our presence] because of thechanges here.

"He's so excited about the positive changes, and it makes sense he would wantus to stay, but when that security prevails when we leave, he will still behappy," he continued. "To be able to walk through places like this, I see how ithas literally turned over from an insurgent stronghold to a town that is openand violence-free."

Mullen returned to Jaker and spent a few moments with Marines and sailorsthere. He explained how their seven months serving here in harm's way willpave the way for the security of the region, and that he fully understands thissacrifice can be harder during the holidays.

"It's great to be able to come out here and see you," Mullen told the platoonassembled before him. "I've been around Marines my entire career, and I cantell you I'm very proud of the work you're doing right now."

The chairman answered questions from the platoon, and then shook eachservicemember's hand and presented them his personalized challenge coinsbefore departing.

"It was great to see him come out here," said Marine Sgt. Khristopher L.Privitar, a police mentoring team section leader. "We hear about celebritiescoming out to bigger camps, but they're not really in harm's way. I think it'sgreat for us to see the senior officer in the military out at our level, where thetroops are fighting here in Helmand province."

"It's good for the Marines' morale,” the Universal City, TX, native continued, andwe could all see he really cares about how we're doing and what we need outhere. He made sure we all got his coin, and that made it special for us. We'll allbe able to look back on the day Admiral Mullen came to see us in Nawa."

An army of volunteers prepare to lay

wreaths on graves at Arlington National

Cemetery in Arlington, VA. The

volunteers placed more than 16,000

wreaths in honor of the nation's fallen

heroes

ARMY- Improved magazine increases weapons reliability- Officials announce first Afghanistan surge units- From high school to flight school- At 80, recruiter still bringing in Soldiers- Holidays add to deployment stress- Soldiers train to use forensic science to catchinsurgents- McChrystal: Guard brings unique skills toAfghanistan

STANDBY TO FIRE - Coast Guard PO3 RobertKetchum, a member of Maritime Safety and SecurityTeam (MSST) 91103, awaits instruction from rangesafety officials during M-16 weapons qualification atNaval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. MSST-91103is tasked with maritime anti-terrorism and forceprotection duties for Joint Task Force Guantanamo.- US Army photo by SSG Emily J. Russell

COAST GUARD- US, Canada mark 30th anniversary of servicesagreement for the Juan de Fuca region- Eleven videos highlight Coast Guard's 2009missions- CG's gift ideas for 12 Nautical Days of Christmas- National Maritime Center launches marinerapplication e-mail service- Cutter Harriet Lane returns home after large drugbust- Guardian's hobby drives him at work

MELE KALIKIMAKA! - The crew of the Virginia-classfast attack submarine USS Hawaii (SSN 776) showtheir local-style holiday spirit by decorating their boat

Marines.TWS Forums and Chat Boards - Sound Off!- What was your best duty station or assignment andwhy? - What is the recipe for that good chow you know how tomake out of an MRE? - Where's the coldest beer in Japan?

- Do you have any tips about keeping healthy, or things to watch out forif you have a disease?These are just a few of the topics that are covered by the many Forums onMarines.TWS. Our forums provide you, the members, a variety of places todiscuss with other members the many topics we have in common. Thosemembers still on active duty would probably like to know about goodassignments when they make out their "dream sheets" or talk to their CareerPlanner.

Those who have worked as Career Planners or served on a selection board mightwant to provide a few tips for members in preparing to talk about their nextassignment.

If you have a disease like diabetes, what tips can you give others about thedisease and things to watch out for with diabetes? Encourage a fellow Marine tokeep on top of a health problem so he stays with us for a long time.

These are but a couple of topics that are available for you to offer advice, warnothers about, discuss with other Marines...or just vent your frustrations.

So pull up a foot-locker and start shooting the breeze, the forums are for YOU!

AN UNOFFICIAL TRADITION CONTINUES

Volunteers place 16,000 wreaths atArlington

Story by Samantha L. QuigleyAmerican Forces Press ServicePhotos by Bill Auth, USO

WASHINGTON -- The Arlington Wreath Project, an unofficial national tradition,prompted about 6,000 volunteers to wake up extra early this morning to helpplace 16,000 wreaths on graves at Arlington National Cemetery.

"It's really nice that America stillremembers our troops," said NikkiBunting, the widow of Army Capt.Brian Bunting, who died inAfghanistan in February 2009. Shevisited her husband's grave with theirchildren, 2-year-old Connor and 5-week-old Cooper.

“It's a sad sight, but it's reallybeautiful. It reminds us that peoplecare,” she said.

Morrill Worcester, president of Maine-based Worcester Wreath Company,started the tradition in 1992,although the seeds for the idea had been planted 30 years earlier. Thecemetery’s hallowed ground first impressed Worcester in 1962, when the 12-year-old Bangor [Maine] Daily News paper boy had won a paper-sponsoredcontest and a trip to Washington.

“It struck me and I just never forgot it,” Worcester recently said about thecemetery. “It was just such a big place and the stones are all nice and straight.

A mother speaks to her daughters

about the value of freedom after

placing a wreath on a grave during

Wreaths Across America at Arlington

National Cemetery. This was the 18th

year that the Maine-based Worcester

their local-style holiday spirit by decorating their boatin Christmas lights at Naval Station Pearl Harbor, HI.- US Navy photo by PO2 Ronald Gutridge

NAVY- H1N1 vaccines crucial to Fleet readiness- Navy bids farewell to USNS San Jose, combatstores ships- CNO rides for recovery in Florida- New YN, PS rating PQS booklets released- Former Strike Group 7 Sailor to be featured inNBC Sports special- MCPON visits Navy Reserve headquarters

CONTROL POINT - While local Iraqi soliders check IDcards and search cars, SPC Sean Kuttner (left) andPFC John Cummings provide security at a trafficcontrol point near Taji, Iraq. The Air Cavalry BrigadeSoldiers partnered with the 34th Iraqi Army Brigade, toset up the Transmission Control Protocol in support ofa 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Divisionmission.- US Army photo by SGT Travis Zielinski

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELANDSECURITY- DHS efforts to enhance driver's license security- SECHS Napolitano reviews DHS' major 2009accomplishments- CBP launches new Predator-B "Guardian" UAS- TSA: Travel safe, travel simple- FEMA encourages winter weather preparedness- CBP: Officers stop Upstate NY bird smugglingattempt- ICE: TX couple sentenced for smuggling aliensfor prostitution

TWAS THE NIGHT OF THANKSGIVING, BUT I JUST COULDN'T SLEEP

I TRIED COUNTING BACKWARDS, I TRIED COUNTING SHEEP.

THE LEFTOVERS BECKONED - THE DARK MEAT AND WHITE

BUT I FOUGHT THE TEMPTATION

cemetery. “It was just such a big place and the stones are all nice and straight.I saw the Tomb of the Unknown [Soldier] and the changing of the guard.”

Fast forward to 1992, when Worcester discovered his company had 5,000surplus wreaths near the end of the season. He made arrangements to place thewreaths on graves at Arlington National Cemetery.

“The first 13 or 14 years of the Arlington Wreath Project I just did it because Iwanted to do it and it was kind of a private thing,” Worcester said. “We didn’twant any publicity or anything else. We just did it.”

For more than a decade, he sponsored the Arlington Wreath Project, with themission to “Remember, Honor, and Teach,” and managed to keep it small andrelatively anonymous.

That is until 2005 when an Air Force photographer happened to capture animage of the annual honor. “Things just totally changed,” Worcester said.

After the photo hit the Internet and made its way around the world, thetradition grew exponentially. This year 151,000 wreaths were placed in morethan 400 cemeteries across the country by 60,000 volunteers as part of WreathsAcross America Day. Individuals and companies sponsored all but 25,000 of the151,000 wreaths, Worcester said.

“I love seeing the participation,” he said. “I’m very proud of the fact that Istarted it, but it’s certainly not me anymore.”

Worcester may love seeing the huge numbers of volunteers, but it presentsinteresting challenges for Wayne Hanson, who volunteers through the MaineState Society of Washington, D.C., to coordinate the Arlington Wreath Project.The Vietnam veteran also sits on the board of Wreaths Across America.

“We started off with just a handful of people helping Mr. Worcester put thewreaths down. It would take us the better part of a good day,” Hanson said.“People would hear about it and want to help, so we would end up with 2[00] or300 volunteers as the years progressed.”

Though the mercury started out below 20 degrees and only climbed to the low40s this year, it didn’t deter those wanting to honor the nation’s fallen heroes atthe holidays.

"The community of surviving families and TAPS [Tragedy Assistance Program forSurvivors] are very grateful to Wreaths Across America, the USO, and otherorganizations for their support,” said Ami Neiberger-Miller, public affairs officerfor TAPS. Her brother, Army Spc. Christopher Neiberger, was killed in action inIraq in August 2007. “Our families know that their loved ones are not forgotten.

“Many families who bury their lovedones at Arlington National Cemeterydo not live nearby, and so it means agreat deal to them to know thatAmerica cares and is honoring theresting place of their loved ones," sheadded.

Though Hanson asks for a moment ofsilence for those who died in recentconflicts and are buried in Section 60,wreaths are not typically placed onthose graves. This year, however, theUSO asked to sponsor 1,000 wreathsspecifically for that section, which isset aside for U.S. military personnel

year that the Maine-based Worcester

Wreath Company has donated wreaths

to honor our country’s fallen

servicemembers.

BUT I FOUGHT THE TEMPTATION WITH ALL OF MY MIGHT

TOSSING AND TURNING WITH ANTICIPATION THE THOUGHT OF A SNACK BECAME

INFATUATION.

SO, I RACED TO THE KITCHEN, FLUNG OPEN THEDOOR

AND GAZED AT THE FRIDGE, FULL OF GOODIESGALORE.

GOBBLED UP TURKEY AND BUTTEREDPOTATOES,

PICKLES AND CARROTS, BEANS AND TOMATOES.

I FELT MYSELF SWELLING SO PLUMP AND SOROUND,

'TIL ALL OF A SUDDEN, I ROSE OFF THEGROUND.

I CRASHED THROUGH THE CEILING, FLOATING INTO THE SKY

WITH A MOUTHFUL OF PUDDING AND A HANDFUL OF PIE.

BUT, I MANAGED TO YELL AS I SOARED PAST THE TREES....

HAPPY EATING TO ALL - PASS THE CRANBERRIES, PLEASE.

MAY YOUR STUFFING BE TASTY, MAY YOUR TURKEY BE PLUMP.

MAY YOUR POTATOES 'N GRAVY HAVE NARY A LUMP,

MAY YOUR YAMS BE DELICIOUS MAY YOUR PIES TAKE THE PRIZE,

MAY YOUR THANKSGIVING DINNER STAY OFF OF YOUR THIGHS.

MAY YOUR THANKSGIVING BE BLESSED!!posted by: Perry, Ken (kapper), Cpl

New general order prohibitsSpice, Salvia use for servicemembers Story by LCpl. Michael AtchueMarine Corps Base Camp Pendleton MCB CAMP PENDLETON, CA -- A new punitivegeneral order concerning the use of uncontrolled orun-regulated psychotropic substances by servicemembers has been disseminated by CommanderMarine Corps Forces, Pacific and became effective on

set aside for U.S. military personnelkilled in Iraq and Afghanistan. Nearly300 volunteers, including 125 militaryfamily members, helped place the

wreaths in less than an hour.

The organization’s president noted that the gesture is meant to highlight thesacrifices made by all servicemembers, however.

"This effort is not about just Arlington National Cemetery," said Sloan Gibson,president of the USO. "The USO hopes to encourage Americans to recognize theservice and sacrifice of veterans who are interred at veterans cemeteries acrossthe country."

While the day concluded with 16,000 wreaths placed in under two hours, itactually began yesterday at the Pentagon, when Wreaths Across Americaexpanded its mission again.

“We’re doing something, which is in addition to what we’ve done in the past,”Worcester said in an earlier interview. “We’re placing a wreath for every victimof 9/11 for the first time.

“There’s going to be a big decorated area at Battery Park in Lower Manhattan,and there’s going to be a wreath-laying ceremony at the Pentagon and anotherone at the field in Pennsylvania,” he added.

The TWS Persons Locator Service has been aresounding success in a very short time!

There have already been dozens of "buddy finds"over the last few weeks, from all services!

This service is free for all Full TWS Members. Regardless of whether or note the person you'relooking for is registered on TWS or not, odds are wecan help you find them! Our TWS PLS Team isheaded by prior serving USAF SMSgt Jim Franklinand USMC Cpl George Reilly. The TWS PLS uses onlypublicly available information sources.

A special PLS form will be installed on the left handHome Page shortly however you are now welcome tosubmit your requestto personlocator@togetherweserved.com - pleaselimit your request to only one submission at a time.

Please supply the following information on the person you are seeking asaccurately as you can. Your submission will be acknowledged along with anapproximate turnround time to respond. Your search will be conducted asthoroughly as possible and chances of a successful find depends on accuracy ofinformation supplied.

1. First Name, 2. Middle Name 3. Last Name 4. Approximate Year Born5. City/State Born or Raised6. Single or Married7. Name of Spouse8. Year Last of Contact9. Last Known Address10. Branch of Service

Marine Corps Forces, Pacific and became effective onDec. 1.

According to MARFORPAC Order 5355.2, thesubstances known as Spice and Salvia Divinorum,while not listed as a controlled substance and highlyaccessible by service members, are hereby prohibitedto all service members assigned within theMARFORPAC chain of command.

The provisions of the order prohibit the actual orattempted possession, use, sale, distribution ormanufacture of Spice, Salvia and any derivative,analogue or variant of either substance.

According to the order, these substances are beingused solely for the purpose of a psychotropic “high”when ingested or smoked, and have a high potentialto negatively affect the safety, health, welfare andperformance of Marines and sailors. Additionally,mission accomplishment, national security and goodorder and discipline of all units can also becompromised.

Known affects of the substances includehallucinations, changes in perception, body or objectdistortion, loss of coordination and concentration,decreased motor function and impairment of short-term memory. These side effects will likely causeusers to suffer adverse physical reactions or engage inunlawful conduct due to impaired judgment, the orderstated.

Although SECNAVINST 5300.28D currently prohibitsthe unlawful use of any natural substance, with theintent to induce intoxication, excitement, orstupefaction of the central nervous system, the MARFORPAC punitive order specifically targets thepsychotropic substances Spice and Salvia Divinorum that are legally obtainable on the open market.

This new order eliminates the ambiguity,” said JohnVeneziano, director, Consolidated Substance AbuseCounseling Center.

Any violation of the order may result in disciplinaryaction. According to the Uniform Code of MilitaryJustice, Marines and Sailors under the command ofMARFORPAC can be punished for violation of thepunitive general order under Article 92.

Common names for Spice include Genie, K2, Skunk,Spice Diamond, Spice Gold, Spice Silver, YucatanFire and Zohai.

Common names for Salvia Divinorum are Diviner’sSage, Magic Mint, Maria Pastora, Sage of the Seersand Sally-D.

“Any unlawful substance that alters a servicemember’s state of mind is prohibited to all militarypersonnel,” Veneziano added. “However, no matterwhat substance a service member is having an issue

10. Branch of Service11. Last Known Rank12. MOS/AFSC/NEC/NOC13. Home of Record (If known)

Please let us know how you like this service!

Buddies Found Success Stories on TWS!"Thanks to George Reilly I found & talked to 2 buddies that I have not talked tosince 1951 & 1952.THANKS AGAIN GEORGE.l"Simmons, John (Skeeter), Sgt

"I joined TWS about two weeks ago, and have since been reunited with:GySgt Carlos Pujols - 21 years lost (MCAS Yuma, 1988)MGySgT Kenneth Thomas - 12 years lost (Okinawa, Japan, 1998)LtCol Warren G. Leonard - 20 years lost (Fiscal Officer, MCAS Yuma, 1989;found on Okinawa in 1993, then lost again) Maj Gary Manley (retired) - 21 years lost (Fiscal Officer, MCAS Yuma, 1988)"...I am so greatful to have found this site. OOHRA!Henderson, Elizabeth (Edwards), Sgt

"Through the TWS Site and the persistant digging of George, Smitty, and JoeMadagan I was able to locate two(2) old buddies and possibly a third one. OneBuddy was my section leader in Machine Gun platoon 51 Years ago. I have hisE-Mail and we have chatted on the phone and we will again. The second one Ihadn't heard seen or any contact in 48 Years. We have talked on the phone andwill again. hank you for this site Major. You and several other Marines havedone a great job and provided a good service. "SEMPER FI" DEVIL DOGS"Rose, Roger (slats), Sgt

CJCS sends Holiday message to troops,families

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON -- Navy Admiral Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs ofStaff, issued the following Holiday message:

As America celebrates this holiday season, our Soldiers, Sailors,Marines, Airmen and Coast Guardsmen are serving around the world.Families and friends at home can enjoy the holidays in peace thanks toyour sacrifice. In the midst of glad tidings, we honoryour service and that of your families who servealong with you.

Our thoughts and prayers are especially with ourwounded warriors, their families, and the families ofthe fallen. They bear solemn burdens often madeheavier by absence. We all must do our part tohonor them and ensure they do not shoulder theircares in solitude this holiday season. America’sfinest families richly deserve the love and thanks of a grateful Nation,and we will never forget their sacrifice.

On behalf of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and our families, I thank you forall you do for our country. We wish you and your families a joyfulholiday season, and all of the blessings of a very happy New Year.

Sincerely,

what substance a service member is having an issuewith, be it prescription, over-the-counter, illegal drugsor alcohol, CSACC is available to provide treatment.”

For more information about Spice and SalviaDivinorum, or to ask about drug and alcohol abuseassistance, visit your unit Substance AbuseCounseling Officer or call CSACC at (760) 725-5538.

Lost Your Password?

If you have forgotten your User ID and Password youcan be quickly and easily reminded by clicking on the"Reminder" link contained on the Login page orfollowing this Link. Your Username and Password willbe immediately sent to you by e-mail.

TWS supports the mission of the Real Warriors Campaign initiative

and the National Suicide Prevention HelplineBECAUSE ONE SUICIDE IS ONE TOO MANY...

M.G. MULLENAdmiral, US Navy

TWS Marine Store - For All Your Marine MerchandiseNeeds!Pay a visit to our online TWS Marine Store. For all your Marine Merchandiseneeds - Shirts, Jackets, Hats, Jewelry, Footwear, Medals, Patches and much,much more!

Over 9000 Quality Items at lowest prices and a 30 day money back guarantee!

Some featured items this month:

This deluxe neoprene laptop sleeve features your Marine Corps logo in bold printand is perfect for making a statement. Approximately 10.5" X 14". Fits up to15" laptops.

This durable polyester Marine Corps flag can be displayed either indoors oroutdoors. Contains two hosting grommets to attach to pole. 3' x 5'.

Marine Corps Crest bumper Sticker. 3" x 7". Made of white vinyl.

The TWS Marine Store - Get your Marine Corps gear this Birthday season anddisplay it proudly!

REMEMBERING PEARLHARBOR

DECEMBER 7, 1941

Suicide Prevention WebsiteNational Suicide PreventionLifeline

For Crisis Intervention

1-800-273-TALK (8255)Press "1"

"RADIO FIRST TERMER" radio show in Saigon,Vietnam 1971. If you were involved with the show,contact Dave Rabbit: daverabbit@grandecom.net

USMC DRILL INSTRUCTORS ASSN., FloridaChapter; Apr. 22-25, 2010; MCRD Parris Island, SC.Contact: Lee Van Sweringen, (843) 263-7516, orlee@marine1mortgage.com

NSA MARINE BARRACKS, Fort Meade, MD (alleras); Apr. 30-May 3, 2010; Parris Island, SC.Contact: drf3@psu.edu for details.

ALL VMO UNITS since the first combat flight of VMO-2 in 1968, to the deactivation of VMO-4 in 1994, May21-23 2010; Ft. Worth, TX. Contact: Cyla Barron,xwm.vmo2@att.net or www.vmoreunion.com

H&S BATTALION, BRIG COMPANY, Cp. Lejeune,NC, May 2010; Myrtle Beach, SC. Reunion for all BrigGuards. Contact: Joe Demarest, (310) 408-1237

MARINE CORPS MOBILIZATION COMMAND,Kansas City, MO. May 2010; Kansas City, MO. Forall Marines & civilians attached to/employed theresince 1964. Contact: Janet (Bly) Bedwell,kcmarinesreunion@aol.com.

1st TANK BATTALION, June 25-27, 2010; Quantico,VA. Contact: Paddy Kelleher,Paddy1958@comcast.net; or Tom Hazlett,twhaz@comcast.net.

"C" CO., 1st BN., PLATOON 159, MCRD ParrisIsland, SC (July-Sept. 1960); July 1-3, 2010; ParrisIsland/Beaufort, SC. Contact: Earl Bradford Robinson,ebcar@aol.com, or (321) 259-9993

"C" CO., 1st TANK BN., WestPac 1984 platoon &those deployed to Cp. Fuji/Okinawa 1986. July 8-11,

DECEMBER 7, 1941

Ninety-year-old William E. Greenhouse, a Pearl

Harbor attack survivor, leaves the remembrance

service held at Oceanside Harbor, CA, Dec. 7.

Greenhouse was then a 26-year-old Marine Pfc. who

served as a truck and tractor driver with

Headquarters Squadron, Marine Air Control Ground 2

at the time of the Japanese attack.

- Photo by Lance Cpl. Daniel Boothe

Members of the US Marine Drum and Bugle Corps

perform at the National Museum of the Pacific War in

Fredericksburg, TX in ceremonies commemorating the

68th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack.

- Photo by Cpl. Bobby J. Yarbrough

Corporal Marcus Smith plays Taps to recognize the

four Marines who lost their lives at Marine Corps Air

Station Ewa during the Pearl Harbor attacks at what

remains of the West O'ahu field in Hawaii. The former

site of MCAS Ewa could be the spot where US service

members fired the first shots of WWII, according to

John Bond, the event coordinator and avid historian.

Smith is a Musician with the Marine Forces Pacific

Band.

2010; Quantico VA. Contact: Brian Gillespie,drums6051@msn.com, (732) 921-7411.

KHE SANH VETERANS, July 13-17, 2010; SanAntonio, TX. Contact: Tom Eichler (773) 625-2101,email teic1448@aol.com; Russ Turner (636) 282-2263, email rkt88@prodigy.net.

3rd BN., 26th MARINE RGT., Aug. 25-29, 2010;Portland, OR. Details at www.326Marines.org.

26th MEU, Summer 2010 reunion in planning stages;location & dates TBA. Contact:26MEUreunion@gmail.com for info.

26th, 27th & 13th MARINES, 5th MARINE DIV,Vietnam; Oct. 2010; Biloxi, MS. Contact: TedOvergard, Box 1775, Harrison, AR 72602-1775

KILO 4/13, RVN; San Diego (dates TBA). Contact JoePizzi; jpizzi@bristolglen.org; (973) 271-3597

VMAT-203, VMA-223, VMA-231, VMA-331 & VMA-542, reunion planned for 2011/2012 timeframe; CherryPoint, NC. Contact: Jeff Quesenberry,qberry2@comcast.net.

---------

Getting Your ReunionNotice (and noticed) In

The Guidon

Your reunion group just tapped you to get the wordout on the street about your upcoming get-togethershindig. And you want your announcement to appearin our monthly newsletter.

Pull up a seat...Welcome to "How To Submit AReunion Announcement to The Guidon!"

We keep it simple here at the MTWS Newsletter,folks...all you have to do is shoot us an email followingthis simple format:

Information WE WANT:- WHAT is the name of the unit/organization the eventis for?To avoid confusion or mis-identification, pleaseSPELL OUT the name of your reunion group, such as"C" Co., 1st Bn.; VMFA-141; 3rd FSSG; MARDETUSS Midway, etc.

- WHEN is it happening?Send us the days of the event and the year.

- WHERE is it being held?Just give us the CITY and STATE; if it will be heldoverseas, the CITY and COUNTRY; or the name ofthe CRUISE SHIP and its departure date from port. We do not publish the names of resorts, lodges,inns, theme parks, entertainment venues,restaurants or hotels.

- Photo by Sgt. Juan D. Alfonso

FAMILY MATTERS

Law allows spouses to keep residency whileunder orders

Story by Samantha L. QuigleyAmerican Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON -- A new law protects military spouses from being taxed forwork performed in states where they’re living outside their home states as aresult of military orders.

President Barack Obama signed the Military Spouses Residency Relief Act, anamendment to the 2003 Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, on Nov. 11.

“This act, among other things, would provide that when a servicemember leaveshis or her home state in accord with military orders, the servicemember'sspouse may retain residency in his or her home state for voting and taxpurposes, after relocating from that state to accompany the servicemember,”the president said in a Nov. 12 White House statement.

The new law means a change in fundamental taxlaw for military spouses, said Army Colonel ShawnShumake, director of legal policy in the office of theundersecretary of defense for personnel andreadiness.

“If a spouse accompanies a military member to astate that is not the spouse’s [state of legalresidence] and does so solely to be with theservicemember under military orders, then theincome the spouse earns from services performed inthat nondomiciliary state cannot be taxed,” he saidin a recent Pentagon Channel interview.

But, he warned, some states interpret the act to apply only if the militaryservicemember and the spouse live under the same roof. “A number of statesbelieve that to get this tax break, or tax exemption, the spouse and theservicemember must have the same domicile,” he said. “Different statesinterpret this possible requirement differently.”

The law does not necessarily mean that someone who makes their permanenthome in one state will never be taxed in the state they’re living in because of aservicemember’s military orders, Shumake said. In fact, he explained, the actstates only that income earned from work performed in the nondomiciliary stateis not taxable. That doesn’t mean the spouse wouldn’t have to pay income taxon such income to the state of legal residency.

“Of course, there are those states that don’t have any income tax at all,”Shumake said. “If the spouse were a legal resident of those states, then theywould likely not pay income tax from [work] performed in any state.”

Understanding the meaning of “domicile” and knowing how to prove it are keysto understanding the law, Shumake said.

First, he said, the terms “domicile,” and “legal residence,” are synonymous. Aperson can have only one domicile at a time. It is one’s primary home orpermanent residence, and it’s formed by being physically present in a state andsimultaneously forming the intent to remain there for the indefinite future.

“You have to prove your intent by establishing certain contacts with the state,such as voting there, buying property there, getting your professional license

- WHO is/are the point(s) of contact for this?The name(s) and contact email address and a phonenumber in this format example: (890) 123-4567. Youcan also include a web address (URL) if your grouphas one. Also, to be fair with space and to protect privacy, WEDO NOT PUBLISH MAILING ADDRESSES unless itis the only way of contact.

Use this example below as a guide for yoursubmission:

CAMP HAGUE, Okinawa, Sept. 25-27, 2010; Seattle,WA. For all Marines who served at the camp until itsclosure in 1975. Contact: Rick Recruit,rick@nowhere.cc; or (888) 555-1234.

You only need submit your announcement detailsonce. That's right -- ONCE.

As it's received, it will be published in the followingissue of The GUIDON, and repeated up to the monthbefore your event. That's plenty of time to get theword out on the street.

On the other hand, information WE DON'T NEED:

"LOOKING FOR" POSTINGSSCANS OF ANNOUNCEMENT FLYERSACCOMMODATION RATES, PACKAGES &TARIFFSPOWERPOINT PRESENTATIONS & PDFsREUNION COSTS OR REGISTRATION FEESBANQUET/CATERING MENUSPLANNED EVENTS, TRIPS, GOLFTOURNAMENTS, MEMORIALS, SHOPPINGEXCURSIONS, TOURSPHOTOSCOMMAND CRESTS, SHIELDS, LOGOS,ARTWORKLINKS TO HOTELS, RESORTS ANDATTRACTIONS

Please email info to: wtprater@togetherweserved.comand I will be sure to include it in this section of thisNewsletter as often as time permits leading up to yourevent.

Any questions? Drop us an email, and we'll be happyto assist you.

REMEMBER:THE FURTHER IN-ADVANCE YOU SUBMIT YOURREUNION DETAILS, THE MORE "FACE-TIME" ITGETS IN The GUIDON!

TWS Marine Challenge Coins

Do you haveMarines.TogetherWeServed.comChallenge Coin?

such as voting there, buying property there, getting your professional licensethere, claiming in-state tuition rates there, registering a vehicle or obtaining adriver’s license there,” Shumake said. “Of all of those, voting may turn out to bethe most important for proving your domicile for the purposes of the [MilitarySpouses Residency Relief Act].”

The act also has an effect on personal property taxes, Shumake said.

“The [act] now says that a nondomiciliary state cannot tax personal propertysuch as automobiles and boats if that property is in the state only because thespouse is with the servicemember in that state in compliance with militaryorders,” he said.

For all the positive benefits the law offers military spouses, it can be confusing,Shumake acknowledged.

The Military Spouses Residency Relief Act addresses only tax law concerningincome earned in nondomiciliary states, the colonel said, and doesn’t change therules for establishing and proving legal residency.

“One common misperception is that the new law allows a spouse simply to‘choose’ his or her spouse’s domicile. This is not true,” he said. “Domicile muststill be demonstrated or proven under the rules that have always been in place.Likewise, a spouse does not ‘inherit’ the domicile of the military member throughmarriage.”

Spouses also should be aware that the law doesn’t allow them to recapture orregain a previously abandoned domicile, he added.

“For example, if the spouse established a Texas domiciliary status and thenmoved to Virginia under orders with the [servicemember], and while in Virginiathe spouse registered to vote and bought property in Virginia and got a realestate license from Virginia, then it looks like the spouse has established Virginiaas the new domicile,” Shumake said. “The [law] is not likely to allow the spouseto abandon Virginia and resume or recapture Texas domiciliary status while stillin Virginia.”

It seems the matter of how the law affects driver’s licenses has left some in abit of a quandary, as well.

Whether a spouse needs to obtain a new driver’s license in each new state thespouse lives in is a matter of state law and completely unaffected by the MilitarySpouses Residency Relief Act, Shumake said.

While the new law can be confusing, help is only as far away as the nearestlegal assistance attorney, Shumake said. He also suggested checking withappropriate state tax authorities for any rules they may have put out, especiallywith respect to refunds for tax year 2009.

Using Your Government E-mail Address on MTWS?

Got a "usmc.mil" email address on your Marines.TWS profile?

If so, you might want to consider a freebie, non-military address.

Challenge Coin?

Coins are available in the TWSCafefor $10, which includes shipping!

Click here to order yours today.

TWS JOBS BOARD

Recently left the Corps? Lookingfor a new post-military career, orplanning on going "in a differentdirection" from your presentcivilian job? Welcome to the TWS JobsBoard which is on the left hand

Home Page just as you log into TWS and containshundreds of job positions!

All positions, described in detail, are posted by fellowTWS Members who are familiar with the credentialsand experience offered by Marines.

Here is just a small sample of the many new jobsrecently posted:

Position Offered: Lessons Learned AnalystLocation: Seoul, ROKSalary Range: TBD

Position Offered: TCS Operator/TrainerLocation: JapanSalary Range: TBD

Position Offered: PC Migration Specialist (8positions)Location: Charleston, WVSalary Range: DOE

Position Offered: Tactical Tomahawk Engineer Location: NAS Patuxent River, MDSalary Range: TBD

Position Offered: Radio Station Sales ManagerLocation: Buffalo, NYSalary Range: TBD

Position Offered: Police OfficerLocation: San Jose, CASalary Range: $65K-$107K

Position Offered: Line CookLocation: Virginia Beach, VASalary Range: TBD

Position Offered: IT Business AnalystLocation: Bowling Green, KYSalary Range: $58K-$70K, DOE

If so, you might want to consider a freebie, non-military address.

A couple of reasons to not use your official usmc email addy here at MTWS: Should you gettransferred and forget to log in after your PCS, you may experience some difficulty in loggingback on to our site. Or, if you get email from a long-lost buddy, you won't get a notificationthey're trying to contact you. Nor will you receive our monthly MTWS Newsletter -- TheGUIDON.

If you don't already have a commercial email account, just visit of the many free web-basedemail providers (Hotmail, Yahoo!, Gmail, etc.) and get one. Sign-up is relatively painless - andfree, and you'll have an alternate email address to throw-around. Just pick one that suits yourneeds.

To change the email address on your profile, click on the EDIT button in your Personal Detailssection and insert your new email address there. Just remember to click SAVE below the textarea when you're finished.

One more email-related item: If you have a spam guard program on your email, configure it toallow messages from admin@togetherweserved.com to come through and not treat it as spam.This allows us to send you messages without any hassle.

Complimentary Upgrade to Combat Troops Serving inOIF/OEF

If you are currently serving as boots on the ground in a combat zone in Iraq or Afghanistan wewill be happy to provide you with complimentary Full Membership for the duration of your tour.Request you complimentary upgrade by contacting TWS Admin - email TWS Admin

REPORT CARD RELEASEDTransparent look at quality & safety gives VA highmarks

WASHINGTON -- For the second consecutive year, the Department of VeteransAffairs (VA) has released a “hospital report card” as part of VA’s effort toprovide the public with a transparent accounting of the quality and safety of itscare.

“This report demonstrates VA’s determination to be open and accountable,” saidSecretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “As a health care organization,transparency of information is essential to providing quality care for ourVeterans.”

In addition, for the first time, data from both the 2008 and 2009 reports will beavailable to the public in machine-readable format on Data.gov. To empowerVeterans and the public at large to track quality, safety and access to Veterans

To view additional job postings, please check our newJob Board in the LEFT-HAND column of the TWSHome Page.

Post a Job on TWS!If you've had success with finding employees, orlocating employment on the TWS Jobs Board, pleaselet us know! This is a valuable FREE service to allTWS Members and employers and we're alwaysinterested in hearing your success stories. Pleaseemail TWS Admin with the details: admin@togetherweserved.com

Comments/Suggestions

Please forward any comments or suggestions that youfeel would further improve the website to

admin@marines.togetherweserved.com or just reply tothis newsletter.

Trade Banner Links with TWS

If you operate a Marine orientated website and arewilling to trade links with TWS, click here forinformation on posting a TWS banner on your site. Inreturn, please contact us atadmin@marines.togetherweserved.com with yoursite's URL, up to 100 words describing your websiteand a 468x60 website banner in jpeg format, ifavailable. We'll be happy to post a reciprocal link inour Preferred Marine Links Section in the category ofyour choice. TWS Marine Links Pages areconveniently organized under different categoriesincluding Marine Associations, MCL Detachments,Marine Businesses, Marine Charities and others.

Veterans and the public at large to track quality, safety and access to VeteransHealth Administration (VHA) facilities, VA’s hospital report cards include rawdata on care provided in outpatient and hospital settings, quality of care withingiven patient populations, and patient satisfaction and outcomes.

VA issued its first facility-level report on quality and safety in May 2008. Aspart of the Obama Administration’s commitment to open government andaccountability, VA highlights its rigorous quality programs and actions taken toaddress the issues VA identified from the last report.

The report gives the health care system high marks, with VA facilities oftenoutscoring private-sector health plans in standards commonly accepted by thehealth care industry.

“Patient-centric care is our mission,” said Shinseki. “As Secretary, I amcommitted to continuing to meet and surpass our high standards of care eachand every day.”

In addition to allowing VA to demonstrate the quality and safety of its care, thereport card provides opportunities to enhance health services.

Some of the marked improvements that VA showed in 2009 include:

Smoking cessation counseling provided to 89 percent of Veteran patients,a 6 percent improvement from 2008; and

Among all ages at risk, 94 percent of Veterans received a pneumoniaimmunization, a 4 percent improvement.

The report notes there is more to be done for women Veterans. To address thispriority and provide women Veterans with the highest quality care VA hasimplemented several initiatives, such as placement of women advocates in everyoutpatient clinic and medical center, and creating a “mini-residency” program onwomen’s health for primary care physicians.

The report also found minority Veterans are generally less satisfied withinpatient and outpatient care than other Veterans. In addition to targetingoutreach efforts to these Veterans, a minority Veteran program coordinator hasbeen placed in every medical center.

“VA’s hospital report card will become a valuable resource of information forVeterans, stakeholders and the department.” said Shinseki. “It will allow VA’shealth care system to be forward looking and focused on advancement.”

VA’s 2008 and 2009 hospital report cards can be found athttp://www.va.gov/health/HospitalReportCard.asp.

ALLOWING FOR LOVED ONESFamilies can see off, greettroops at airport gate

Story by Samantha L. QuigleyAmerican Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON -- It’s a scene that’s played out inairports across the country numerous times in the pasteight years: Families and servicemembers clinging toeach other, either sad to leave or happy and vowing tonever let go again.

The emotion always is appropriate, but the location ofthe scene -- just beyond the airline ticket counters andbefore the security checkpoint -- robs the actors ofprecious minutes with loved ones. Those lost minutesare unnecessary, at least as far as the TransportationSecurity Administration is concerned, a TSAspokesman said.

“TSA permits the airlines tooffer a gate pass to familymembers of arriving ordeparting US servicemembers,”Greg Soule said. “So, familymembers who want toaccompany a...servicememberbeing deployed to the boardinggate, or greet them [as theyreturn] from deployment at the arrival gate may receivepasses to enter the secure area of the airport.”

Though TSA allows this practice, the final decisionrests with the airlines, from which family membersmust request the passes. Each airline, and possiblyeven airport, has its own rules and procedures, Soulesaid.

Families interested in obtaining a gate pass need tocheck with the airline before arriving at the airport todetermine the exact rules and procedures.

“It’s an airline procedure,” Soule said. “It is somethingthat TSA has permitted the airlines to do, though wehave security regulations that we provide to theairlines.

“Typically, only passengers who are flying and have aboarding pass are allowed to pass through security,”he added.

TSA makes this allowance out of support for thearmed forces, Soule said.

Though military family members with gate passes canpass through security, they must adhere to all securityregulations. This includes removing coats, jackets andshoes, and the liquids regulation. Anything of a liquidor gel consistency must be 3.4 ounces or less and besealed in a quart-sized storage bag to pass through

Military housing allowance rates set for 2010Story by Army SFC Michael J. CardenAmerican Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON -- Military members will see an average raise of 2.5 percent inhousing allowance rates in 2010, a BAH program analyst for the DefenseDepartment said recently.

The increase comes to average of around $37 per month for the more than900,000 servicemembers expected to draw the basic allowance for housing in2010. Some areas will see a higher increase, while others will see less, CherylAnne Woehr said.

The 2010 raise is down from 2009’s 6.5 percent average, and is the smallestpercentage increase since the inception of the BAH program in 2000. This is duethe past year’s recession and declining housing market, she said.

“Rates are set based on actual housing data, so as the economy has declined,vacancy rates have increased [and] rental prices have declined, which resultsdirectly to lower BAH rates in various areas,” Woehr said.

Those who do notice the BAH rates lower in their area than last year shouldn’tworry, she said, because an individual rate protection law is in place. The policyprotects those who already are under a rental agreement. So if BAH rates intheir area are lower Jan. 1 than on Dec. 31, the previous, higher rate applies.

“Servicemembers are able to take advantage of the increase in rates, but arenot affected by decreasing rates,” she said. But servicemembers who changeduty stations, change dependency status or get promoted on or after Jan. 1 willbe affected by the new rates, she added.

Woehr stressed that it isn’t necessarily bad news for the servicemember in areasthat see a decrease in rates. “Servicemembers who are newly reporting to anarea get to take advantage of the lower market when they arrive,” she said.

The BAH program is designed to benefit the servicemember, but it’s notdesigned to pay 100 percent of housing expenses, Woehr said. The rate isintended to cover rent, renter’s insurance and utilities based on pay grade anddependency status.

The local market economy determines annual BAH changes and sets the nextyear’s BAH rates. Military housing offices from each installation begin collectingdata on the local rental market as early as January each year. The officesresearch the current rates for two-bedroom houses, townhouses, single-familyhomes and the different standards and profiles for homes, Woehr explained.

sealed in a quart-sized storage bag to pass throughsecurity, Soule said.

Each family member would have to present the gatepass as well as a valid government-issuedidentification card, Soule added.

TSA doesn’t keep statistics on how frequently militaryfamilies take advantage of this opportunity. Volunteersat Washington-Dulles International Airport’s USOlounge said they are not frequently asked about theprogram or for assistance in obtaining the passes.

Separations and reunions are emotional enough innormal situations, but with the holidays in full swing,they’re even more poignant. And thanks to the TSAand cooperating airlines, they can be more positive.

“We’re happy to do this and make this smallexemption,” he added, noting that TSA officialsrecognize that military families, as well asservicemembers, make sacrifices for the country.

The TSA has no jurisdiction overseas, so US militaryfamily members wishing to see off or meet theirservicemember at a foreign airport are encouraged tocheck with the airline for local policy.

The policy on gate passes is available on theTransportation Security Administration’s Web siteunder the heading “Accommodations for US MilitaryPersonnel.”

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Typically, rates are higher in larger, more heavily populated metropolitan areas,such as New York City, Chicago and Washington, D.C. Rates in rural areasusually are more stable, and although they may increase to some degree, therise doesn’t have the same impact as in larger cities, she said.

An estimated $19 billion in BAH will be paid to nearly 1 million servicemembersin 2010, Woehr said.

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Member CommentsUSMC/TWS is one of the best sites to help me and otherreconnect with long lost brothers and sisters. I have alwaysmissed the closeness that being a member of a rifle platoonbrings out. The cameraderie and love for your brother is hardto find in the civilian world. You make friends when you alllive in the same squadbay or out in the bush. It was a timewhen the government wasn't trying to take away to your rightto bear arms, because we all had to carry a piece. TWSmeans reconnection with those of us who elected to serve in

the world's toughest clan of warriors. Everybody is supportive and looks out forone another. That's totally opposite of the civvie world where everyone mayhave your back, but it's there to steady their hands when they want to stab youin the back to get ahead. There is no Esprit de Corps on the outside, but thereis plenty of it here.

McTernan, Larry (Doc McTee), HM3

on june 10 1995 i broke my neck in a swiming pool,funnyhow fast your buddy's stop calling or coming bye.one daywhile trying to look up marines i served with i ccame tothis site.since then i have got in touch with some andmeet many new brothers and sisters.who if i mise a daychecking in i get a call just to see if im ok or needanything.while looking up a old freind who at age 6 was

just like my uncle,his name was ronald ashburn who lost his life in nam june 1069 i met a brother on here who served with him and even pulled his body fromthe feild that day.it has helped me heal wounds i have felt since age 6 andcame to know that you all have my back in life or even in death.thank's to youall and the founders of this site. Carden, Steven (steve), LCpl

SINCE COMING BACK FROM VIETNAM IN APRIL 1969 I HAVENOT BEEN ABLE TO TALK ABOUT WHAT I EXPERIENCEDTHERE. NOW I CAN. SINCE JOINING TWS I HAVE BEEN ABLETO MEET SEVERAL OF THE PEOPLE I SERVED WITH INVIETNAM. I HAVE ALSO CORESPONDED WITH MANY PEOPLE IDID NOT KNOW BUT WERE THERE EITHER IN VIETNAM OR ATTHE VARIOUSE DUTY STATIONS I WAS ASSIGNED.

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THE VARIOUSE DUTY STATIONS I WAS ASSIGNED. THE BOTTOM LINE IS I HAVE BEEN ABLE TO RECONNECT TOA PART OF MY LIFE THAT IS VERY, VERY IMPORTENT TO ME.

I FOUND OUT JUST HOW MUCH I MISS THE CLOSE RELATIONSHIPS I HADDURING MY TIME IN THE CORPS. THE USE EVERY DAY OF THIS OUTLET HAS BEEN VERY GOOD FOR MY MENTALHEALTH.THANKS PEOPLE, SEMPER FI,DON STOVERStover, Donald (Smokey), 1stLt

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